This painting is part of an altar dedicated to Agatha in the Basilica of Saint Cecilia. Agatha is venerated along with Cecelia in this church due to their similar stories. This representation shows the executioners preparing Agatha for her torture, tying her arms behind her back and exposing her breasts. The light in the painting is focused on her face, as she calmly looks toward heaven, the source of her strength. This upward motion in the piece draws the viewers eye up. An angel is shown above Agatha holding the crown of martyrdom she is about to receive as reward, as well as a palm frond which symbolizes martyrdom and resurrection into new life.